This dessert is incredibly easy to make and doesn’t require baking. It’s made with simple, store-bought ingredients and comes together quickly. The combination of crushed Oreos and creamy layers makes it rich, satisfying, and fun to eat. You can customize it with gummy worms or toppings to match a theme, making it ideal for birthdays and celebrations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Crush the Oreo cookies in a food processor or zip-top bag until they resemble fine crumbs. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed Oreos on the bottom.
Spread the creamy filling evenly over the cookie base.
Top with the remaining crushed Oreos to resemble “dirt.”
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3–4 hours before serving, or overnight for best results.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12–15 servings. Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time: 4 hours Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Chocolate Version: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer, double-chocolate flavor.
Gummy Worms: Add gummy worms between or on top of the layers for a fun, kid-friendly touch.
Individual Cups: Make dirt cake in small cups for easy party servings.
Peanut Butter Twist: Mix in a few spoonfuls of peanut butter to the filling for a nutty variation.
Holiday Theme: Use themed sprinkles or candies to decorate the top for different holidays or events.
Storage/Reheating
Store Oreo Dirt Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since it’s a chilled dessert, reheating isn’t necessary. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla?
Yes, chocolate pudding is a popular variation and gives the dessert a deeper chocolate flavor.
How do I crush the Oreos without a food processor?
Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or heavy object to crush them into fine crumbs.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used instead of frozen whipped topping. Just be sure it’s stabilized so the dessert holds up well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Oreo cookies contain gluten, but you can use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies as a substitute.
Can I make Oreo Dirt Cake ahead of time?
Definitely. In fact, it tastes even better when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Can I use low-fat or sugar-free ingredients?
Yes, you can use light cream cheese, sugar-free pudding mix, and low-fat milk or whipped topping to make a lighter version.
How long does it need to chill?
At least 3–4 hours is ideal, but overnight chilling gives the best flavor and texture.
Do I need to remove the filling from the Oreos?
No, use the whole Oreo including the filling—it adds flavor and helps the crumb texture stick together.
Can I freeze Oreo Dirt Cake?
It’s not recommended. Freezing may cause the creamy layers to become watery or change texture when thawed.
What dish should I use?
A 9×13-inch baking dish or a large trifle bowl works well, but you can also use individual cups for single servings.
Conclusion
Oreo Dirt Cake is a classic no-bake dessert that’s as easy to make as it is fun to eat. With its layers of crushed cookies and creamy filling, it’s always a hit at gatherings and family events. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with fun toppings, this dessert is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Oreo Dirt Cake is a fun, no-bake dessert made with crushed Oreo cookies, creamy layers of pudding, and sweetened cream cheese. It’s rich, fluffy, and perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
1 package (14.3 oz) Oreo cookies
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
3 1/2 cups cold milk
1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
Crush the Oreo cookies in a food processor or zip-top bag until they resemble fine crumbs. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, softened butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Fold the pudding mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
In a 9×13-inch dish or trifle bowl, layer half of the crushed Oreos on the bottom.
Spread the creamy filling evenly over the Oreo base.
Top with the remaining crushed Oreos to resemble “dirt.”
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3–4 hours before serving, or overnight for best results.
Notes
Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a deeper flavor.Add gummy worms for a playful, kid-friendly twist.Make in individual cups for easier serving at parties.Decorate with themed sprinkles or candies for holidays.Best served chilled; do not freeze.
